70% cabernet sauvignon, 15% merlot and 15% cabernet franc grapes grown in the Henschke Eden Valley estate vineyard. grapes grown in the Eden Valley region.

The latter part of spring led into one of the hottest summers on record, with virtually no rain. The drought conditions resulted in smaller berry size producing spicy dark intense reds.Tropical cyclones Elaine and Vance brought unseasonal rains in mid March, causing widespread botrytis problems requiring careful handpicking. 1999 proved to be another challenging vintage for Eden Valley although the final quality results made it worthwhile.

Matured in new and seasoned French oak hogsheads for 18 months prior to blending and bottling. Bottle aged in the Henschke cellar for museum release.

This wine carries the name of Stephen’s father, fourth-generation Henschke winemaker, Cyril Henschke (1924-1979); a tribute to one of Australia’s outstanding winemaking pioneers, who was renowned for old-vine, single-vineyard and quality varietal table wines. Cyril planted cabernet sauvignon at the Henschke Eden Valley property in the late 1960s. The cabernet sauvignon vines, along with cabernet franc and merlot, are planted on a north facing slope, and are managed with organic and biodynamic practices. First produced as a single-vineyard wine in 1978, Cyril Henschke Cabernet Sauvignon celebrates the incredible beauty that emerges from the vibrant rows of this Eden Valley vineyard, revered for its texture, depth, complexity and fine-grained tannins.

Deep garnet with brick-red hues. Earthy aromas of shiitake mushrooms, liquorice root and sandalwood, with underlying hints of mulberry, boysenberry, safe, bay leaf, pepper and nutmeg. A poised palate of dark fruits, leather and Dutch chocolate is balanced by an alluring aicd line and fine-grained tannins, delivery a long, textural finish. 

Great vintage; drink now

"Structured, superfine, proportioned cabernet of complexity, richness and intensity. Tight and blackcurranty with toasty, funnelled, focussed fruit and length. Excellent mix of savoury French oak and ripe red fruit. Beauty.. 94 Points - Campbell Mattinson, The Wine Front, January 2005

Robert Parker's Wine Advocate - 94 pts - A fabulous offering is the 1999 Cabernet Sauvignon Cyril Henschke. A blend of 70% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Merlot, and 15% Cabernet Franc, aged completely in French oak, it boasts a dense ruby/purple color in addition to an elegant perfume of black fruits, loamy soil, and hints of mineral as well as spicy wood. Medium to full-bodied, pure, layered, and impeccably made, this elegant Cabernet will drink well for 12-15 years. - Aug 2003